He was about darting into the inn, but Dale caught him by the arm.
“Not so fast,” said the Virginian. “Let Danvers know who you are and he’ll sell us out without hesitation.”
“You are right,” said Ethan.
A clatter of hoofs upon the stones caused them to turn once more toward the stable-yard. Master Dirk Hatfield had thrown himself into the saddle, and now with a wave of his hand to the hostler, which looked much like a warning to silence, he disappeared in the gloom. Danvers and Wheelock soon came out and entered their vehicle.
“Well?” said Dale inquiringly.
“I’ll follow behind and stop them on the road,” said Ethan, resolutely. “Then I can get the paper, if possible, and slip away before Danvers can reach the ear of any one to betray me.”
“I’m with you,” said Richard Dale.
Ethan clasped his hand in silence. At that moment the carriage started up the dark road. A boy was driving it, and he was compelled to go slowly, so they had no trouble in keeping it within hearing; for it was impossible to see more than a dozen yards ahead, and the lamps were but pin points of flame invisible from behind.
Suddenly there was a shout, a shrill cry and the sound of plunging horses.
“He’s upon them already,” shouted Ethan.